Parallel parking is one of the driving skills that many new drivers worry about before taking their G2 road test. While it may seem difficult at first, it becomes much easier with the right technique and regular practice.

If you’re preparing for your G2 road test at the Oakville DriveTest Centre, learning how to parallel park safely and confidently can improve your overall driving skills and help you feel more prepared on test day.

Although parallel parking may be included during the G2 road test, every student should be ready to perform the manoeuvre safely if asked by the examiner.

Is Parallel Parking Included in the Oakville G2 Road Test?

Yes, parallel parking may be included during your G2 road test if the examiner determines it is appropriate based on traffic, road conditions, and available parking spaces.

Because there is no guarantee that it will or won’t be part of your test, every student should practise parallel parking before their road test.

Why Parallel Parking Matters During Your G2 Road Test

Parallel parking demonstrates several important driving skills that examiners evaluate, including:

  • Vehicle control
  • Observation skills
  • Steering accuracy
  • Speed control
  • Awareness of surrounding traffic
  • Safe parking beside the curb

The examiner is looking for a safe, controlled manoeuvre—not perfection.

How to Parallel Park Step by Step

Step 1: Position Your Vehicle

Pull up beside the parked vehicle you want to park behind.

Your vehicle should be:

  • About one metre from the parked vehicle
  • Parallel with it
  • Rear bumpers roughly aligned

Before stopping, check your mirrors and signal if necessary.

Step 2: Check Mirrors and Perform a Shoulder Check

Before reversing:

  • Check your rear-view mirror.
  • Check both side mirrors.
  • Perform a shoulder check.
  • Look behind the vehicle.

Only begin reversing when it is safe.

Step 3: Reverse Slowly Towards the Curb

Shift into reverse and move slowly.

Turn the steering wheel towards the curb while continuing to observe your surroundings.

Avoid rushing the manoeuvre. Slow, controlled movements make it easier to adjust your position.

Step 4: Straighten the Steering Wheel

As your vehicle enters the parking space, begin straightening the steering wheel.

Continue reversing while checking:

  • Rear-view mirror
  • Side mirrors
  • Rear window
  • Surrounding traffic

Maintain a slow and steady speed.

Step 5: Adjust Your Position and Secure the Vehicle

Finish by straightening the vehicle so it is:

  • Parallel to the curb
  • Close enough to the curb without touching it
  • Properly centred within the parking space

Once parked, place the vehicle in Park and apply the parking brake if required.

Common Parallel Parking Mistakes

Many students lose marks because they:

  • Forget to perform shoulder checks
  • Reverse too quickly
  • Hit or mount the curb
  • Park too far from the curb
  • Focus only on the mirrors instead of checking around the vehicle
  • Fail to observe approaching traffic
  • Panic and rush the manoeuvre

Most of these mistakes can be corrected with regular practice and professional instruction.

What G2 Examiners Look for During Parallel Parking

During parallel parking, the examiner is assessing whether you can:

  • Perform proper observations
  • Control the vehicle smoothly
  • Steer accurately
  • Reverse at a safe speed
  • Stay aware of pedestrians and other vehicles
  • Finish in a safe parking position

Remember, safety and control are more important than completing the manoeuvre quickly.

Tips to Improve Your Parallel Parking

You can become more confident by:

  • Practising regularly in quiet residential areas
  • Using consistent reference points
  • Reversing slowly and smoothly
  • Checking mirrors and performing shoulder checks
  • Looking where you want the vehicle to go
  • Staying calm and avoiding rushed movements
  • Taking lessons with an experienced driving instructor

The more you practise, the more natural the manoeuvre becomes.

Abdul’s Expert Tip

“Many students think parallel parking is about memorising steering movements. It’s actually about observation, patience, and vehicle control. Once you understand the technique and practise it regularly, it becomes one of the easiest parts of the G2 road test.”

— Abdul Shaikh, Driving Instructor with Over 20 Years of Experience

How AZAN Driving School Helps You Master Parallel Parking

At AZAN Driving School, every G2 preparation lesson is tailored to your experience and confidence level.

Our one-on-one lessons include practice with:

  • Parallel parking
  • Three-point turns
  • Reverse parking
  • Roadside stops
  • Lane changes
  • Residential driving
  • Defensive driving techniques
  • Mock G2 road tests

Abdul Shaikh provides personalised feedback throughout the lesson, helping you correct mistakes and build confidence before your road test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parallel parking always included in the Oakville G2 road test?

No. Parallel parking may be included depending on the examiner, traffic conditions, and the availability of a suitable parking space. Every student should be prepared to perform it safely.

Can I fail my G2 test if I hit the curb?

Touching the curb may result in lost marks, while mounting the curb or creating an unsafe situation can have more serious consequences. Focus on maintaining control and parking safely.

How close should I park to the curb?

Your vehicle should be parked close enough to the curb to be considered safe and legal without making contact with it.

How can I improve my parallel parking skills?

The best way to improve is through regular practice, using a consistent parking technique, and receiving feedback from a qualified driving instructor.

Can AZAN Driving School help me prepare for the G2 road test?

Yes. AZAN Driving School offers one-on-one G2 road test preparation lessons that include parallel parking practice, mock road tests, and personalised coaching to help you prepare with confidence.

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Book Your G2 Road Test Preparation in Oakville

Parallel parking doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right instruction and consistent practice, you can develop the confidence and skills needed to perform the manoeuvre safely on your G2 road test.

At AZAN Driving School, Abdul Shaikh provides personalised one-on-one G2 road test preparation, helping students improve their parking skills, build safe driving habits, and prepare for success at the Oakville DriveTest Centre.

Book your G2 preparation lesson today and take the next step towards earning your G2 licence with confidence.